Tesla Motors has finally unveiled the Model 3, an electric sedan for the masses.
Continuing the company's strategy of moving downmarket as battery technology becomes ever cheaper, the entry-level Model 3 will have "at least" 215 miles of range and a $35,000 price tag.
Chief executive Elon Musk suggests the initial specs are conservative, and the $35,000 base model will be the best vehicle in the price bracket, including EVs and traditional gasoline- and diesel-fueled vehicles. It will be positioned as an electric rival to the BMW 3-Series.
The sedan appears to be shorter and a bit narrower than the Model S and Model X. Despite the smaller size, Tesla promises five adults will fit 'comfortably.' The front seats have been pushed forward toward the front axle to maximize interior space, while the front- and rear cargo areas are claimed to offer the most storage capacity of any vehicle with similar exterior dimensions. Musk suggests a seven-foot surfboard can be placed inside.
The entry-level Model 3 will be capable of launching to 60mph in less than six seconds, while higher trim levels are expected to hit the same speed in less than four seconds.
Supercharging and autopilot technology will come standard on all trim levels. Tesla promises to double the number of supercharger stations from 3,608 globally to around 7,200 by the end of next year.
The company currently operates 215 retail outlets across the globe. Another 225 will be built before the Model 3 arrives, late in 2017.
"I do feel fairly confident that it will be at the end of next year," Musk said with a grin.
Buyers can place a $1,000 deposit to reserve a spot in line, but they need to act fast if they want to receive the 3 in a timely manner. Tesla received over 130,000 pre-orders before the end of the reveal event, and Elon Musk Tweetedon Friday night that the order count stands at 232k.
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